Spreading Bent
Agrostis stolonifera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 43 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spreading bent is a fine-textured cool-season grass that forms dense, low-growing mats through creeping stolons. It produces delicate flower panicles in summer and maintains its green color through most of the year. This grass spreads readily and is often used in high-maintenance lawn applications.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spreading Bent is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: high. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Requires frequent watering and maintenance to look its best
- May spread aggressively into other planted areas
Wildlife value
As a grass species, it provides minimal value to pollinators but can offer nesting material and seed for small birds. The dense growth habit may provide some cover for small wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Spreading Bent fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.